This informal CPD article, 'Looking Back with Gratitude: A Festive Reflection on Workplace Mental Well-being’, was provided by iGROW CorpHealth, partnering with Corporates to drive Employee Engagement through Holistic Health Solutions.
As the year winds down, the workplace often takes on a festive buzz—decorations go up, plans are made, and a spirit of celebration fills the air. Amidst the holiday cheer, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on the year gone by. What better way to honor this season of joy than by focusing on gratitude, that little sparkle of appreciation that can light up even the busiest workdays?
The Gift That Keeps on Giving: Gratitude in the Workplace
Gratitude is like a snowflake—it may seem small and delicate, but it holds incredible power to transform. Research (1) shows that gratitude boosts well-being, reduces stress, and strengthens workplace connections. Much like wrapping a gift, expressing gratitude is an act of care that leaves a lasting impression on both the giver and the receiver.
A study (1) shows that when colleagues express gratitude, they inspire loyalty, kindness, and a willingness to collaborate—even at personal cost. It’s a bit like stringing twinkling lights around a room—one small action creates a glow that spreads throughout the workplace.
Deck the Halls with Gratitude Journals
Imagine a stocking filled with moments of joy, one for every day of the year—that’s the magic of a gratitude journal. By jotting down positive moments, like a kind word from a colleague or a project that went well, employees can reflect on the “gifts” they’ve received throughout the year.
Reflecting and listing things we’re grateful for improves mental well-being (2). Encourage your team to make it a habit—whether as part of a morning ritual or a quiet end-of-day reflection. Consider gifting journals at your holiday party to inspire this simple yet powerful practice.
Share the Cheer with Positive News
Picture this: A team meeting where, instead of discussing deadlines, you’re sharing tales of triumph, acts of kindness, or small victories from the week. Positive News Share sessions are like exchanging gifts—everyone walks away with something uplifting.
This practice not only spreads joy but also fosters a sense of connection. Studies (1) show that sharing gratitude reduces workplace negativity, like gossip or ostracism, and builds stronger teams. So why not turn your next meeting into a mini holiday celebration, filled with stories that warm hearts and brighten spirits? Gratitude: The Star on Top of the Tree
At its core, gratitude is about connection. It reminds us of the people who make our workdays brighter and the moments that make our efforts meaningful. Whether it’s a heartfelt thank-you note, a kind word in passing, or a shared laugh, gratitude strengthens the ties that bind us.
This holiday season, let gratitude be the star on top of your workplace’s tree. Celebrate your team’s achievements, learn from the challenges you’ve faced together, and let appreciation guide you into the new year.
As you wrap up this year, take a moment to unwrap the gift of gratitude. Reflect on the year’s wins, thank those who’ve made a difference, and let the spirit of appreciation light the way to a brighter, more connected workplace.
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from iGROW CorpHealth, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
REFERENCES
(1)https://hbr.org/2021/11/giving-thanks-at-work-an-hbr-guide
(2)https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9353733/#%3A~%3Atext%3DGratitude%20has%20many%20benefits.%2C2014)%3B%20Lambert%20et%20al
